University of Richmond
University of Richmond: History Engine: Maggie L. Walker
This brief biography of Maggie L. Walker outlines her rise to success as the first African American bank owner in the United States.
Black Past
Black Past: Harold Washington (1922 1987)
This biography profiles the political career of Harold Washington, the first African American mayor of Chicago.
Smithsonian Institution
National Portrait Gallery: Breaking Racial Barriers
Exhibition of portraits, accompanied by brief biographical sketches, of prominent African Americans, whose contributions to science, the arts, business, and politics have enriched and enlivened the public good in the United States:...
Encyclopedia Britannica
Encyclopedia Britannica: Floyd Mayweather, Jr.
This entry from Encyclopedia Britannica features Floyd Mayweather, Jr., an American boxer whose combination of speed, power, and technical prowess made him one of the best pound-for-pound fighters of his generation.
Encyclopedia Britannica
Encyclopedia Britannica: Big Mama Thornton
This entry from Encyclopedia Britannica features Big Mama Thornton, an American singer and songwriter who performed in the tradition of classic blues singers such as Bessie Smith and Memphis Minnie. Her work inspired imitation by Elvis...
Encyclopedia Britannica
Encyclopedia Britannica: Deacon Jones
This entry from Encyclopedia Britannica features Deacon Jones, an American professional gridiron football player, regarded as one of the sport's premier defense players.
Encyclopedia Britannica
Encyclopedia Britannica: Doc Rivers
This entry from Encyclopedia Britannica features Doc Rivers, an American basketball player and coach who, as the head coach of the Boston Celtics, led the team to a National Basketball Association (NBA) championship in 2008.
Encyclopedia Britannica
Encyclopedia Britannica: Elvin Jones
This entry from Encyclopedia Britannica features Elvin Jones, an American jazz drummer and bandleader who established a forceful polyrhythmic approach to the traps set, combining different metres played independently by the hands and...
Encyclopedia Britannica
Encyclopedia Britannica: Naomi Ruth Sims
Brief biographical details on American model and business executive, Naomi Ruth Sims, who was the first black supermodel to adorn the cover of Ladies' Home Journal.
Encyclopedia Britannica
Encyclopedia Britannica: Allen Toussaint
This entry from Encyclopedia Britannica features Allen Toussaint, a songwriter, pianist, and producer, Toussaint was responsible for national hits by Ernie K-Doe, Chris Kenner, Jessie Hill, Aaron Neville, Irma Thomas, and the Showmen,...